Diet

Mini Lops, like other rabbits, have specific dietary needs to keep them healthy and happy. Their diet should primarily consist of hay, fresh vegetables, and a limited amount of pellets.

The Mini Lop diet should mirror their natural behaviour as herbivores, focusing on fibre-rich foods, fresh vegetables, and limited amounts of pellets. A well-balanced diet will help maintain their digestive health, prevent obesity, and support their overall well-being.

Safe and Harmful Foods

Mini Lop owners can ensure safe feeding by providing unlimited access to fresh hay, a variety of leafy greens and vegetables, and limited quantities of high-fiber pellets, while avoiding processed foods and toxic items.

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Hay

  • Timothy Hay - A staple that provides necessary fibre.

  • Orchard Grass Hay - Another fibre-rich option, sweeter in taste.

  • Meadow Hay - A mix of various grasses, great for variety.

  • Oat Hay - High in fibre and great for chewing.

  • Bermudagrass Hay - An affordable alternative that's high in fibre.

Fresh Vegetables

(Always introduce new vegetables gradually to avoid digestive upset.)

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Leafy Greens

  • Romaine Lettuce

  • Green Leaf Lettuce

  • Red Leaf Lettuce

  • Kale (in moderation)

  • Swiss Chard (in moderation)

  • Spinach (in moderation)

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Vegetables

  • Broccoli (stems and leaves, in moderation)

  • Cauliflower (leaves only, in moderation)

  • Brussels Sprouts (in moderation)

  • Cabbage (green and red, in moderation)

  • Carrots (roots in moderation; tops are great!)

  • Bell Peppers (any color)

  • Zucchini

  • Cucumber

  • Celery

  • Radishes (in moderation)

  • Endive

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Herbs

  • Parsley

  • Cilantro

  • Basil

  • Dill

  • Mint

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Fruits (in moderation) Fruits should be treated as a treat and should only be offered in small quantities due to their sugar content.

  • Apples (remove seeds)

  • Bananas

  • Blueberries

  • Strawberries

  • Raspberries

  • Blackberries

  • Pears (remove seeds)

  • Peaches (remove pit)

  • Plums (remove pit)

  • Melons (cantaloupe, watermelon, etc.)

  • Pineapple

  • Grapes (in very small amounts)

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Pellets

Choose high-fiber pellets specifically designed for rabbits. Look for ones with a high percentage of fiber (18% or more). The ingredients should primarily consist of timothy hay or similar grass hay, and should not contain seeds, nuts, or added sugars.

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Water

Always ensure that your Mini Lop has access to fresh, clean water. A water bottle or a heavy ceramic bowl can provide a good source.

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Flowers

Safe flowers that Mini Lops can eat include:

  • Dandelion flowers

  • Rose petals (unsprayed)

  • Hibiscus

  • Marigolds

  • Calendula

  • Nasturtiums

  • Pansies

  • Violets

  • Sunflower petals (unsprayed)

Always ensure that any flowers provided are free from pesticides or chemicals, and introduce new flowers gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions.

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Other Safe Treats

  • Dried Herbs (such as thyme, oregano, and dill)

  • Pelleted Herbs (made specifically for rabbits)

  • Natural, dried flowers (like dandelion or hibiscus)

  • Coconut (unsweetened, dried coconut in moderation)

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Foods to Avoid

  • Iceberg Lettuce (can cause diarrhea)

  • Potatoes

  • Onions

  • Garlic

  • Avocado

  • Chocolate

  • Sugary or processed foods

  • Seeds and pits from fruits

Key Components

  • Hay (80-90% of diet): Timothy hay, Orchard Grass hay, or Meadow Hay should make up the bulk of your Mini Lop's diet. Hay provides essential fibre, promoting healthy digestion and preventing hairballs.

  • Fresh Vegetables (5-10% of diet): A variety of fresh vegetables, such as leafy greens, cruciferous veggies, and other vegetables (as listed earlier), should be introduced gradually to avoid digestive upset. Rotate vegetables daily to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients.

  • Fresh Fruits (5% of diet): Fruits should be given in moderation (about 1-2 tablespoons per pound of body weight per day) due to their sugar content.

  • Pellets (1-5% of diet): A high-fibre pellet, specifically designed for rabbits, should be provided in limited amounts (about 1-2 tablespoons per pound of body weight per day). Avoid overfeeding pellets, as they can contribute to obesity.

Tips and Considerations:

  • Fresh Water: Ensure fresh, clean water is available at all times.

  • Variety: Rotate vegetables and fruits regularly to maintain a balanced diet.

  • Portion Control: Monitor and adjust the amount of hay, vegetables, fruits, and pellets based on your Mini Lop's age, size, and activity level.

  • Avoid Overfeeding: Keep an eye on your Mini Lop's weight and adjust their diet accordingly to prevent obesity.

  • Avoid High-Sugar Foods: Refrain from feeding high-sugar foods, seeds, nuts, or processed treats, as they can cause digestive issues.

  • Consult a Veterinarian: Seek advice from a veterinarian or a qualified rabbit specialist to ensure your Mini Lop receives a balanced diet tailored to their specific needs.

Feeding Schedule

  • Unlimited Hay Access: Provide a constant supply of hay, ensuring it is fresh and available at all times.

  • Daily Vegetables and Fresh Fruit: Offer a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits in moderation, following the recommended daily amounts.

  • Pellet Feeding: Offer pellets in limited quantities, ideally 1-2 tablespoons per pound of body weight per day.

Got a question? Lets talk!

Always monitor your Mini Lop for any signs of digestive upset when introducing new foods and consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations tailored to your rabbit’s needs. If you are unsure about certain foods please contact me.

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